RE: Just a little to the left.
If you don't want to put a scope on it (everybody should learn how to use rifle sights, IMO), you could also check into putting a Williams receiver (peep) sight on it. They make both a standard dovetailed adjustable version, and a micrometer adjustable version (which would be my choice). The Williams sights are great sights, and would be just the ticket for your boy's .22.
Mike